Trends Spring 2015 | Page 6

look,” he said. “Plus, it contains great working space for residents.” That was the primary goal: to have a building that would work in partnership with residents to facilitate creativity and the continued success of the company. Finishing touches add value About 25% of the building’s exterior is glass, providing welcome natural lighting for workers. Vertical sun shades attached to the exterior frame of windows help deflect bright summer sun from the interior spaces while letting in ample natural lighting. “In the other building there were places where, if you tried, you might be able to see a window someplace in the distance,” Johnson said. “We now have this great natural light and great views for everybody.” The design built in accommodations for solar panels, should the company decide in the future to incorporate a photovoltaic system. The building is also bigger than what JAMF needs at present, to accommodate future expansion. The first floor is available for lease until that time. 6│ TRENDS A time lapse video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwvTb-yLEsQ shows precast concrete column, beam, and panel construction at JAMF. The interior layout is surprisingly open, with only one traditional office space. Staff members work at groupings of desks based on the team they are with. “It makes it easier to have face-to-face conversations. It shortens response time. We value being in the space together,” Johnson said. “It also encourages eavesdropping so you can join in others’ collaborations and offer help.” Many of the interior walls are coated in dry erase paint to provide a platform for impromptu brainstorming sessions, sketches, formulas, and team members’ thoughts – again, to foster collaboration and encourage creativity. The core of the building, away from windows, houses mechanicals and several meeting rooms. JAMF showed its commitment to the local art community by commissioning 70 pieces of art from 55 artists to give each of the meeting rooms color and character. The works are all 3½ feet tall and range from 5 to 13 feet wide; they include photography, graphic design, paintings, and mosaics. The biggest area of discussion turned out to be just how much of the fourth floor to dedicate to patio space. The fourth floor includes an open area that serves as an employee cafeteria and can also be used as a meeting or work space. A balcony overlooks the rivers. “We wanted a covered outdoor workspace, but it had to be functional. How big to make the balcony was a big issue,” Johnson said. “The ‘Garage’ was a compromise.” The Garage is an interior glassed-in area that connects to the outdoor space via a glass “garage door.” In good weather, the door can be raised and the glassed-in area becomes part of the balcony. In inclement weather, the door can be closed to provide shelter while still giving the feeling of working outside. “It provides a more sheltered space and extends the period of time when we can use the balcony,” Johnson said.